The NorCal scowl is an angry, bad tempered expression worn on the faces of many people who reside in Northern California. Many Northern Californians are known to wear a scowl as their primary expression which is why this particular scowl gets it own name complete with a geographic reference. The reason why Northern Californians wear the scowl is debatable. Some believe it is due to arrogance while others describe it as a defense mechanism or perhaps as an expression of anger over the high cost of living and bad traffic conditions that are especially prevalent in the Bay Area.

"I went out sailing on the Bay this weekend but when I waved to passing boaters all they gave me was the NorCal scowl."

"I was going to ask her to dance but she gave me the NorCal scowl so I went right back and sat down."

"My band played the Hemlock last night but I couldn't tell if the audience liked us or not because they all had the NorCal scowl."